1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1988 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 155 kg more than 1988 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mazda RX-7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1988 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | RX-7 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2440 mm |